Bigger Sacu Could Lead the Way

THERE is much discussion in South African government circles about formulating an African development strategy. Many elements are being implemented by a multitude of government departments and agencies.
Development through Trade: What will the outcomes of the WTO Ministerial be?

The World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) biannual ministerial jamboree is just around the corner. This year it will take place in Hong Kong in December. What is it likely to deliver?
Development through Trade: South Africa, a development state?

SENIOR South African government representatives argue that they are agents of a development state.
Business Must Not Miss this Boat

FREE-trade area talks between the Southern African Customs Union (Sacu) and the US are a bit like the children’s film, The Never Ending Story.
Development through Trade: A South African trade policy

SA SHOULD develop a trade policy, as distinct from negotiating positions. As government moves to accelerate our economic growth rate it is timely to consider this.
Africa-China Relations Require Reality Check

China is a rising, rapidly modernising power. Its manufacturing prowess grows daily; its overseas footprint measured through population and investment expansion abroad is increasingly felt.
Development through Trade – Genetically modified foods

I USED to think trade debates were polarised until I discovered genetically modified (GM) foods.
Development through Trade: the appropriate contours of a SA-centric intra-African trade strategy?

WHAT are the appropriate contours of a SA-centric intra-African trade strategy? Among economists there is consensus that productive, or supply-side, capacities encompassing a host of “behind-the-border” issues need attention.
It’s Time to Stop Blaming China Alone Over Textiles

CHINA-bashing in SA is intensifying. It is centred on clothing and textile imports. But diminishing returns are setting in; the blame game is becoming tiresome.
More sour than sweet in SA-China trade relations

HAILED as an overwhelming success, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao’s visit to South Africa raises profound questions about bilateral engagement and how we will deal with global economic and trade dynamics in the coming decade.